Christmas in the Appalachian Mountains 27

Day 1

Welcome Aboard! Join us for a festive motor coach getaway through the scenic Appalachian Mountains, filled with spectacular scenery, holiday cheer, and yuletide spirit. Our journey begins in Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley with a delicious buffet lunch at the historic Natural Bridge Hotel, one of the region's premier destinations. Enjoy freshly prepared cuisine and warm Southern hospitality in the elegant Colonial Dining Room. After lunch, we cross the street to Natural Bridge State Park to visit the charming Festival of Trees display, where local organizations decorate holiday trees that reflect the spirit and traditions of their community. We then continue to beautiful Wytheville, Virginia, nestled among the majestic mountains of Southwest Virginia. Upon arrival, check into the Holiday Inn Express & Suites and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure. Dinner is on your own, with a variety of nearby restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel, offering everything from casual dining to full-service dining experiences. Relax and unwind before retiring to your comfortable accommodations for a restful night's sleep.

Day 2

After breakfast we meet our step-on guide for a delightful tour of charming Wytheville, Virginia. Discover the fresh look of historic Downtown Wytheville as you stroll along inviting walkways accompanied by music playing throughout Main Street. Enjoy time browsing unique shops, searching for antiques, sample local flavors, and taking photos with the town's famous 30-foot pencil and iconic LOVEworks display. Experience the warmth, hospitality, and small-town charm that make Downtown Wytheville truly one of a kind. Next, we take our reserved seats at the renowned Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre for "An Appalachian Christmas," a heartfelt holiday production celebrating the music, stories, and traditions of the mountains. Blending classic Christmas favorites with bluegrass, gospel, and country influences, this warm and festive performance captures the spirit of home, community, and the simple joys that make the holiday season so special. Later, we return to Downtown Wytheville for the beloved Wytheville Christmas Parade, a festive annual tradition celebrating the spirit of the season. Set against the backdrop of the town's beautifully decorated downtown streetscape, the parade features colorful floats, marching bands, community organizations, holiday music, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Please note: Seating is not available for the Wytheville Christmas Parade, and passengers should be prepared to stand while viewing the parade festivities. Following the parade, we return to the hotel for a relaxing evening and a restful night's sleep before another exciting day of holiday fun tomorrow.

Day 3

After breakfast we depart for White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, and the world-famous Greenbrier Resort for a fascinating guided Bunker Tour. Hidden beneath the elegant resort for more than 30 years, this once top-secret underground facility was built during the Cold War as an emergency relocation center for the United States Congress. Step behind the massive blast door and discover the remarkable story of one of America's most intriguing Cold War secrets. Following the tour, enjoy time to experience the breathtaking holiday beauty of The Greenbrier. The resort sparkles with the magic of the season, featuring thousands of poinsettias, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, glowing lights, festive wreaths, and elegant seasonal décor throughout the grand public spaces and cozy sitting rooms. Take time to browse the resort's distinctive shops, each offering unique gifts and holiday treasures. We conclude our visit with a delicious lunch at April's Pizzera, a local favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and satisfying Italian American fare. Relax and enjoy a freshly prepared meal featuring the classic favorites of pizza and pasta before we begin our journey home. As we begin our journey home, reflect on the many highlights of this memorable holiday getaway - from the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the warmth of regional hospitality to outstanding entertainment, festive celebrations, and the unforgettable elegance of The Greenbrier at Christmastime. Happy Holidays!

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch